Knowledge is the Key to a Healthy Heart
Learn all about heart health
All About Heart
The heart is a muscular organ having a clenched fist size been divided into four chambers i.e. the right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium, and left ventricle.
Heart and its Functionalities
The right atrium receives oxygen-poor blood that is pumped into the right ventricle, which sends it to the lungs. The left atrium receives oxygen rich blood from the lungs through the pulmonary veins, and this blood is pumped into the left ventricle, which then sends it out to the rest of the body.
The heart is responsible for maintaining blood pressure and ensuring that the blood flows in the correct direction. The heart valves are crucial in this process, ensuring the blood does not flow backward. The tricuspid and mitral valve is located between the right atrium and right ventricle as well as left atrium and left ventricles respectively. The pulmonary valve is at the base of the pulmonary artery, and the aortic valve is at the base of the aorta.
Heart Disease
Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, affects the heart and the blood vessels that supply blood to it. It is a leading cause of death worldwide, including in India. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention of heart disease is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart and reducing the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications.
Types of Heart Disease
- Arrhythmia refers to an irregular heartbeat. It can occur when the electrical impulses that control the heartbeat are disrupted.
- Cardiomyopathy adversely impact the heart muscle by making it enlarged or thickened, leading to heart failure.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow or blocked.
- Congenital heart disease is an abnormality in the heart that presents at birth. The defect could be in the heart walls, valves or the blood vessels.
- Valvular heart disease occurs when the valves in the heart do not function properly
- Heart failure occur when the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD) narrowing of arteries which results in reduced blood flow to head, arms, stomach and legs. Usually, affects the arteries in the legs.
Heart Rate and Arrhythmias: Understanding the Basics
The heart rate is an essential indicator of our overall health. A regular resting heart rate is 60-100 beats per minute (BPM). However, it can sometimes become irregular or abnormal, known as arrhythmia. It is when the heart beats too quickly, slowly, or irregularly. There are many different types of arrhythmias caused by various factors.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Arrhythmia
The symptoms of arrhythmia can vary from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may experience palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and fainting. If you experience these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is essential.
A healthcare professional can diagnose arrhythmia through an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG measures heart activity and can detect any irregularities in the heart rate. Sometimes, a Holter monitor may track the heart rate over time. This can help identify irregularities that may not be detected during a routine ECG.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the heart work?
The heart works by contracting and relaxing to pump blood. It has four chambers: the right atrium and ventricle and the left atrium and ventricle. Blood enters into right atrium and gets pumped into the right ventricle and thereby transmitted to receive oxygen. The oxygen-rich blood returns to the heart in the left atrium and is pumped into the left ventricle, pumping it out to the rest of the body.
Can I know the risk factors of heart disease?
The risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, stress, smoking.
How can I reduce my risk of heart disease?
You can reduce your risk of heart disease by adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing existing health conditions.
Can heart disease be prevented?
Heart disease can often be prevented or delayed by adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking low cholesterol food. Avoid fried food items, smoking and consumption of alcohol.
What are some common heart tests and procedures?
Common heart tests and procedures include electrocardiograms (ECGs), stress tests, echocardiograms, angiograms, and heart cardiac.
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Disclaimer: The information presented by Boston Scientific Corporation is for educational purposes only and does not recommend self-management of health issues. The information should not be treated as comprehensive and does not intend to provide diagnosis, treatment or any medical advice. Individual results may vary and hence, it is advisable to consult your doctor regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
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